Vanessa Griffiths has been appointed our new Chief Executive

24 August 2016

We are delighted to announce that Vanessa Griffiths has been appointed our new Chief Executive.

Vanessa joins the Ramblers from National Trust Wales, where she is responsible for leading the Trust’s North Wales team of staff and volunteers. With more than 10 years experience in the charity sector, Vanessa has also previously successfully led Groundwork North Wales - a social enterprise which works with disadvantaged individuals and communities to help them to improve their own lives through the creation of green spaces, green jobs and green energy. Prior to this Vanessa was a senior civil servant within the Welsh government, where she was responsible for economic development and business support.

Des Garrahan, Chair of the Ramblers Board of Trustees, said “We are delighted that Vanessa Griffiths is joining us as our new chief executive and we extend a warm welcome to the Ramblers. Vanessa has a long history of caring for landscapes and helping connect people with place, which stands her in good stead as the lead of Britain’s walking charity.

“This is an exciting time for the Ramblers, when we are seeing a huge demand for our work. We are confident that Vanessa's background in conservation and sustainable development makes her the perfect candidate to lead the Ramblers in our ongoing journey to protect and promote footpaths and the British walking environment.”

Vanessa Griffiths said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Ramblers, who do so much to protect our right to access Britain’s countryside and historic path network. This is an exciting time for the charity, with lots of opportunities to get more people walking and enjoying the many benefits that walking can bring.

“I am a keen walker myself and look forward to helping people connect with the beautiful landscapes Britain has to offer. The Ramblers has a proud history of involving people in protecting our paths and countryside for future generations, and I’m looking forward to working with the staff, members and volunteers who make the Ramblers what it is today.”

Vanessa Griffiths will take the helm from Natasha Clayton. Natasha was appointed interim chief executive in July 2016 following the departure of Benedict Southworth, who stood down from his position at the Ramblers after four successful years as chief executive.